January 10, 2018

Someone Greater Than We Can Imagine

Psalm 110; Hebrews 7:11-17

The Lord says to my lord: “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.”

—  Psalm 110:1

In New Testament times, Psalm 110 was understood as spoken by David. Jesus used this assumption to show that the Messiah at God’s right hand is superior to David and is even the Lord of David (see Mark 12:35-37).

The New Testament explains that Jesus is superior to every hero in Israel. Jesus is not like any Israelite high priest but is more like Melchizedek, who was both king and priest, and is described in Hebrews 7:3 as being “without beginning of days or end of life.” Whereas Adam was made from dust, Jesus is from heaven. “Before Abraham was born, I am!” said Jesus (John 8:58). The gospels describe Jesus as greater than David, Solomon, and Jonah; greater than the temple; and Lord of the Sabbath.

Jesus offers us much more than we can think or imagine. Not only is he our example and teacher; he is our creator God in our flesh. Not only does he forgive our sins; he also buries them in the deepest sea, remembering them no more. Not only does Jesus help us fight temptation; we also are crucified with him and dead to temptation’s power. Not only are we going to heaven; we are also already seated in the heavenly realms with Christ (Ephesians 2:6). Because of his unconditional love, we no longer have to carry our guilt. Because Jesus sits at God’s right hand, every enemy of his and ours is under his feet. Praise Jesus for his countless blessings!

Lord Jesus, we praise you for being Lord of everything. Guide and comfort and sustain us today, we pray. Amen.

About the author — Dean Deppe

Dean Deppe has been a pastor in inner-city, suburban, and rural ­churches. Currently he teaches New Testament theology at Calvin Theological Seminary. His courses include one on the parables of Jesus. He and his wife have four grown children.

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